The Recommended Reading Order for the Hitman Series
To fully appreciate the character growth, recurring subplots, and overlapping timelines of the Hitman universe, you should read the books in order of their publication. The series alternates between full-length romantic suspense novels and shorter companion novellas that check in on the central couple, Nikolai and Daisy. Following this sequence prevents spoilers and keeps the timeline clear.
The Hitman Books in Order
- Last Hit (2013): The debut novel that introduces Russian Bratva hitman Nikolai and Daisy.
- Last Gift (2013): A holiday-themed novella (Book 1.5) that continues Nikolai and Daisy's domestic and dangerous life together.
- Last Breath (2014): A full-length novel focusing on Daniel, a former soldier turned mercenary in Rio, and Regan.
- Last Hit: Reloaded (2015): A novella (Book 2.5) that returns to Nikolai and Daisy as they face new threats to their hard-won peace.
- Last Kiss (2015): A full-length novel following the scarred Bratva boss Vasily and a kidnapped hacker, Naomi.
- Last Hope (2015): The final full-length novel, centering on the jungle mercenary Mendoza and Ava.
Publication Order vs. Chronological Order
In the Hitman series, the chronological order matches the publication order. The main novels focus on distinct couples, but the novellas (Last Gift and Last Hit: Reloaded) are direct sequels to the first book, expanding on Nikolai and Daisy's relationship. Because characters from previous books frequently reappear or are referenced, reading out of order will spoil major plot points and relationship milestones. To get the best experience, do not skip the novellas, as they bridge the gaps between the larger novels.
The Heart of Hitman: Book-by-Book Breakdown
Last Hit (Book 1)
Nikolai, a cold and ruthless Russian assassin raised by the Bratva, crosses paths with Daisy, a young woman fleeing a highly controlled and abusive upbringing. Nikolai's professional detachment crumbles into an intense, protective obsession. This book sets the dark, high-heat, and suspenseful tone for the entire series.
Last Gift (Book 1.5)
This holiday novella offers a softer look at Nikolai and Daisy as they attempt to celebrate Christmas like a normal couple. While it features plenty of domestic and romantic moments, the lingering danger of Nikolai’s profession keeps the tension high.
Last Breath (Book 2)
The setting shifts from Minneapolis to the dangerous streets and slums of Rio de Janeiro. Daniel, a former soldier turned mercenary, rescues Regan from a human trafficking ring. Their story is a slower, emotional burn focused on survival, trust, and mutual healing.
Last Hit: Reloaded (Book 2.5)
Nikolai and Daisy return in this novella. Now settled into their lives, they must confront new enemies who threaten their safety, forcing Nikolai to unleash his lethal skills once again to protect the woman he loves.
Last Kiss (Book 3)
Vasily is a scarred, hardened Bratva leader who believes himself incapable of tenderness. Naomi is a brilliant hacker who gets caught in the mafia's crosshairs. When Vasily abducts her for her skills, a battle of wits and emotional walls ensues, creating a highly suspenseful and intense romance.
Last Hope (Book 4)
The series concludes deep in the jungle. Mendoza, a lethal mercenary, finds himself protecting Ava, a woman caught in a deadly political conspiracy. This final installment brings the series' themes of redemption, survival, and fierce loyalty to a dramatic and satisfying end.
What to Know Before You Start
Co-authors Jessica Clare and Jen Frederick crafted this series as an unapologetic, gritty look at the criminal underworld. The heroes are morally gray, and the plots touch on dark themes such as kidnapping, Bratva violence, and human trafficking. If you enjoy protective alpha heroes, high stakes, and strong heroines who hold their own against dangerous men, this series delivers. However, readers sensitive to dark themes should proceed with caution.